Golden lion statues from the 11th and 12th centuries

Golden lion statues from the 11th and 12th centuries

This rare and mysterious lion golden sculpture is a symbol of power and authority, carefully decorated with circular filaments and fine grains, consistent with the Islamic goldsmith tradition of later Muslim kingdoms in the Iberian Peninsula (now Spain and Portugal). Islam was introduced to Europe in 711 AD, bringing new traditions to decorative arts. Although the handle, spout, and open mouth of this lion statue conform to the form of a sea lizard, its small size may imply more symbolism than functionality. The artwork that is closest in size, style, and craftsmanship to this lion is a winged ram discovered in northwest Spain.